Building on the success of its 2024 programme, Blackwater Valley Opera Festival and Music Generation Waterford is once again bringing the magic of opera and singing to classrooms across the county with the return of Discover Opera and Discover Singing. These inspiring music education initiatives offer primary school children an engaging introduction to the transformative power of music.
Made possible through the generous support of the Tomar Trust and Waterford City & County Council, these musical education outreach projects immerse children and their teachers in the captivating world of opera and singing.
Through hands-on participation, students will discover the joy of storytelling through music, developing confidence and a deeper appreciation for the arts. With previous year programmes met with resounding enthusiasm from both teachers and students, the 2025 programme promises to be another unforgettable experience.
“All of the events were so well organised and the staff are incredibly accommodating and enthusiastic. The invaluable experience of discovering opera and music with professionals of this standard is absolutely unique. An excellent way of introducing opera to children in a very engaging and child centred way.”
– St Mary’s National School, Grange
“A fantastic opportunity for the children to learn something new, in a fun, interactive way. It gives children a fantastic insight into how opera is performed and all the elements involved in getting it on stage. It really got the children out of their comfort zone when it comes to singing. Absolutely fantastic!”
– Scoil Baile Mhic Airt, Old Parish
Discover Opera and Discover Singing open the door to artistic expression, offering young minds a unique chance to explore the magic of opera and singing. The programmes for primary school children, inspire a passion for the performing arts, nurturing creativity and fostering a lifelong love of music.
A blend of in-school workshops led by a professional team of musician educators culminates in singing and opera experiences in Lismore during the festival week.
This year’s deadline for expression of interest by schools for Discover Opera and Discover Singing programmes is 12th March. To register your school, please contact the BVOF Team by email: [email protected]
This year’s Dress Rehearsal for Schools takes place on Monday 26th May and provides students with an exclusive opportunity to experience the magic of opera as it comes together on stage. This year’s opera, A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Benjamin Britten is suitable for students from 5th class to Leaving Cert level and lasts approximately four hours.
“An amazing night which exposes students to the magic of opera. Wonderful for them to see a live orchestra. Many students decided to take music as a Senior Cycle subject as a result of seeing the event.”
– St Augustine’s College, Dungarvan
Benjamin Britten’s opera is based on Shakespeare’s famous comedy, bringing its magical world to life through music. A Midsummer Night’s Dream spins a tale of chaos unleashed by a feud between fairy-king Oberon and his queen, Titania – where mistaken identities, magical mishaps and alarming transformations ensue.
The growing popularity and demand for the annual dress rehearsal underscores its value as an educational tool and community tradition. The application deadline for schools to express interest for this year is 12th March. Tickets are limited and schools should apply by emailing: [email protected]
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival takes place from 27 May – 2 June 2025, hosting 23 events at 12 venues across the Blackwater Valley. The flagship opera A Midsummer Night’s Dream will take place in the surrounds of Lismore Castle, County Waterford. This year’s opera features a host of Irish and international performers, and boast the award-winning Irish Chamber Orchestra, under the baton of conductor David Brophy, and directed by Patrick Mason.
